After reading an online review of treking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) I added it to my list of must do adventures. Its one of Nepal’s most celebrated journeys, offering a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion. This legendary route became popular with trekkers in the 1950s, following the first successful ascent of Annapurna. Unlike Everest Base Camp, the Annapurna trail takes you through a diverse landscape of lush forests, terraced fields, and quaint mountain villages, eventually opening up to reveal the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary.
The trek itself was an unforgettable experience, challenging yet rewarding with every step. Starting from the warm, subtropical climate at lower elevations, we gradually climbed into cooler, alpine terrain. Each day was a new adventure as we crossed rivers, climbed steep paths, and passed through rhododendron forests. The trek required lots of endurance, but reaching ABC was immensely gratifying, standing under the shadow of the towering Annapurna massif. The joy and sense of accomplishment were overwhelming as I gazed upon snow-covered peaks surrounding the sanctuary, with Mount Machapuchare, the “Fishtail,” standing distinctively.
The views along the trek were simply breathtaking. From terraced hillsides in Ghandruk to the mighty peaks visible from the higher sections, every turn offered a picture-perfect moment. The sunrise over Annapurna South, casting a golden glow across the snow-capped summits, was a sight that will stay with me forever. In addition to the mountains, the trek gave me a window into the local Gurung and Magar cultures, adding a layer of cultural richness to the natural beauty.
Before and after the trek, I stayed in a Pokhara Guesthouse, a lakeside city known as the gateway to the Annapurna region. The city had a relaxed vibe, with its serene Phewa Lake, vibrant markets, and cozy cafes. I stayed at a guesthouse near Lakeside, offering clean, comfortable rooms and a terrace overlooking the lake. Each evening, I enjoyed unwinding there, watching the sunset over the lake with a cup of Nepalese tea in hand, feeling peaceful and grounded after the demanding days on the trail.
After Pokhara, I spent two days in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal. My Bed and Breakfast in Kathmandu cost me just £18! Breakfast was an additional £6. Unbelievable if only Cheap New York Bed and Breakfasts existed. This city has a unique energy, with a mix of ancient heritage and modern urban life. Kathmandu’s Durbar Square was one of my first stops, filled with stunning pagodas, temples, and the ancient palace of the Malla kings. The scent of incense filled the air as I wandered the narrow streets, discovering local shops and hidden courtyards with intricate wood carvings everywhere.
The food in Kathmandu was basic. Traditional Nepalese dishes like dal bhat (a rice and lentil dish), momo dumplings, and Newari specialties offered rich flavors. I also visited some Thakali restaurants where I tried variations of dal bhat, served with an assortment of seasonal vegetables and spicy pickles. Not a western chain in sight.
In Kathmandu, I also explored Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched on a hill overlooking the city. The temple’s stupa, with its iconic all-seeing eyes of Buddha, was a fascinating place, filled with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind and a great view of the valley below. Another must-visit was Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, where I joined the local and Tibetan pilgrims circling the stupa in a clockwise direction, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.
For nature enthusiasts, the Garden of Dreams in central Kathmandu provided a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. With its well-maintained gardens, fountains, and European-inspired architecture, it was a serene spot for a few hours of relaxation. I also enjoyed visiting the nearby Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, where a short hike offered refreshing greenery and a beautiful view of the Kathmandu Valley.
My time in Nepal, from the Annapurna Base Camp trek to my stays in Pokhara and Kathmandu, was an incredible journey. This country, with its towering mountains, spiritual sites, and warm-hearted people, left a lasting impression that I’ll carry with me for years to come.
